Fix the error that cannot delete the VPN connection

The VPN client has to process every step so you can enjoy a safe, private browsing experience without spending too much time and effort.

But things don't always go well, since VPNs like any other piece of software, are sometimes prone to problems.

Either way, sometimes certain VPN events can interfere with your ability to enjoy this type of service. For example, you might discover that you can't remove the VPN connection from your PC.

Note that this is not the same as being unable to disconnect from the VPN. Being unable to remove the VPN connection profile from the computer has a number of different effects, and this problem can be resolved in a way.

1. Uninstall the VPN app

Step 1: Press the Win key on the keyboard.

Step 2: Type Add or remove.

Step 3: Select the option Add or remove programs .

Step 4: Find the VPN app you want to remove from your PC.

Step 5: Select the VPN app.

Step 6: Click the Uninstall button when it shows up.

Step 7: Follow the instructions on the screen to proceed with the removal.

Once the uninstall is over, you should no longer see the VPN profile.

2. Manually delete the VPN connection

Step 1: On Windows 10, open the Settings app.

Step 2: Go to Network & Internet section .

Step 3: Click the Change adapter options button .

Click the Change adapter options button

Step 4: Determine the VPN connection configuration.

Step 5: Right-click on the VPN connection.

Step 6: Select Delete from the context menu.

That will delete any old connection profiles that still exist after you uninstall the app. Note that attempting to delete the active connection will have no effect.

Therefore, make sure that you have uninstalled the application before trying to delete the VPN connection profile. If the connection is working or the VPN client is still installed / the service is still running, the Delete option will be greyed out.

3. Remove old, outdated TAP drivers

Step 1: On Windows 10, press the Win key on the keyboard.

Step 2: Enter Device.

Step 3: Select Device Manager from the Start menu .

Step 4: Expand the Network adapters section in the manager.

Step 5: Right-click on any old, unwanted TAP Driver adapter.

Step 6: Select Uninstall from the menu.

Step 7: Confirm its removal.

It is done! You have completely removed the VPN connection from your computer. Not only do you delete the client, but also make sure that there are no remaining connection profiles or the TAP driver associated with the VPN on the computer.

Sometimes it is necessary to perform these seemingly useless operations as many VPN providers intentionally leave these files behind. The reason why they do this is if one day you change your mind and reinstall the service, the process will be less complicated.

However, many TAP drivers and / or connection profiles no longer being used or functioning may interfere with the ability of other VPNs to run as expected. This situation creates a conflict between VPN software and should be avoided.

David Pac

Update 26 August 2020